Enlisting Soon? Spend Smart

When my oldest son received his first draft notice, I was hit with a wave of nostalgia—and a little shock. I remembered my own enlistment: two uniforms, some socks and underwear, a pair of boots, a duffel bag, and a whole lot of excitement. That was it. No shopping lists, no online orders, no “must-have” recommendations from influencers.

Fast forward to today, and enlisting in the IDF comes with a whole new set of expectations—and costs. While the army still provides essential gear, recruits are now expected to arrive with a long list of recommended items. And yes, that list can get expensive fast.

That’s why it’s so important to plan ahead. If you’re enlisting soon—spend smart.

To help ease the financial burden, the IDF provides “kochavim” (stars) —a digital budget to purchase personal gear. These stars are distributed in stages: one allotment approx. a month before the draft, another shortly after, and a third at the start of the calendar year. They can be used in approved stores for items like clothing, gear, and sports equipment.

Here are a few practical tips to get the most out of your budget:

• Know what you actually need. The IDF publishes official lists based on your unit—start there.
• Plan before you buy: compare prices and confirm that the store accepts “kochavim.”
• Use platforms like HaKaveret that let you order during service—no need to buy everything upfront.
• Don’t fall for peer pressure or sales tactics. Just because “everyone buys it” doesn’t mean it’s right for you.
• Talk to someone already serving in the same role. They’ll tell you what’s truly useful.

If you’re celebrating with a draft party, consider asking for gifts from your equipment list—this can save you money and let others contribute meaningfully.

And one last thing: don’t forget about life after the army. Try to save a portion of your monthly pay—between one-third and one-half—so when your service ends, you’re ready to start your next chapter with confidence and financial freedom.

Wishing you a meaningful, safe, and financially smart journey in uniform.